Rent Real Estate
Dependency is not the inevitable end of aging. Today people live
Many Canadians are not happy with government decisions these days and a
Mortgage Investors Lose
Increasingly, first-time housing developers are coming from Canadian non-real estate not-for-profits. Their lack of hands-on expertise is offset by a burning commitment to fulfill housing needs in their own communities.
Look for more luxurious features and improved energy efficiency in new homes built in Canada during the coming year. A survey of members of the Canadian Home Builders" Association (CHBA) shows four in 10 builders say they will make significant changes to the houses they are building, including more luxurious features, better energy efficiency, more square footage and more environmentally favourable features.
Canadians who decide to sell their house and adopt a high-rise
Canadian builders and developers will be taking a close look at new census numbers just released by Statistics Canada (www.statscan.ca). The numbers show that smaller houses and condominiums, particularly in urban areas, will continue to drive the housing market in the coming years.
A recently-released report on small- and medium-sized enterprises or SMEs concludes that “to turn the corner on two decades of deteriorating Canadian living standards” requires policies specifically geared towards addressing the barriers to growth of Canadian SMEs. There are many definitions of SMEs that refer to revenues, employment or assets. This study defined SMEs as enterprises that employ fewer than 250 people.
During the real estate boom, staging and cosmetic touch-ups were often all it took to launch buyers on a desperate race to make an offer before they ended up in a price-escalating, multiple-offer showdown. Now that calmer conditions exist for buyers, superficial or fashion-based make-overs may not be enough to trigger an offer. They may even turn buyers off a property.
Canadians like to have their cake and eat it, too. Increasing numbers want to ensure the environment is protected and they want to enjoy the residential and commercial real estate they own and use -- a combination that creates business opportunities for eco-friendly businesses and companies.
Fueled by low interest rates and an improving economy, Canada"s housing market finally slowed down this summer after setting records for new and existing home sales. Although interest rates are creeping up, most analysts think the market will rebound again in the fall.
Although few Canadians are surprised to hear residential mortgage debt grew in the fourth quarter of 2001 and continued to increase in this year"s first quarter, most Canadians reel when they hear we owe $460 billion against our homes.
Legitimate construction contractors in Ontario are paying twice the amount they should in order to offset the costs of contractors who don"t pay, says the Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario. The council represents about 100,000 unionized workers.
As the cry for affordable housing goes up across Canada, two recent
A report by Re/Max Canada and Clayton Research says real estate prices in Canada will rise an average of 13 per cent after inflation by 2011, and that all areas of the country should enjoy robust real estate activity during the coming decade.
It may be a buyer"s market in Raleigh, North Carolina, but are prices on the rise?
Canada"s new "Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) Act," which kicks in today, requires brokers to report to a new government agency if a real estate transaction appears suspicious. Failing to do so could result in a fine of up to $2 million and five years in prison.
Across Canada, governments and communities are out to get Canadians connected. In 2000, 51% of all Canadian households had at least one member who was a regular Internet user from one location or another, which was an increase from 42% in 1999.
The same economic pressures that have sent the Toronto Stock Exchange lurching into negative territory have created the first significant improvement in housing affordability since 1996, according to a recent Royal Bank study. Although our federal rate setter, the Bank of Canada, has not mirrored US interest rate cuts, it has consistently lowered rates, a trend paralleled by Canadian mortgage lenders. The Royal Bank reports that five-year mortgage rates averaged 7 percent in the January-to-May period compared to 8.15 percent in the fourth quarter of last year.
Canadians operate more than 2.5 million illegal businesses because they operate businesses from their homes without the appropriate zoning for commercial ventures. Most municipalities restrict the operation of businesses from residential dwellings to small transitional zones along major routes.
Mortgages have put Canadians more than CN$ 343 billion in debt, according to Statistics Canada, but savvy investors love mortgages for their semi-annual compound interest returns and fully-secured status.
During the 20th century, Canadian homes underwent more than their share of transformations. Along with improvements in construction, Canadians saw more labour-saving devices, environment-modifying equipment and mind-expanding technology in that century than in all our previous history combined.
Last Wednesday, our Federal Minister of Finance Paul Martin released a
In an announcement almost overshadowed by the star-studded glitz and flashy accolades of Toronto"s highly-acclaimed International Film Festival, 13 finalists in the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Housing Awards Program were introduced by Claude Poirier-Defoy, acting CMHC President. Awards will be presented during a forum held November 14-16 in Ottawa that will focus on finalists" projects, all of which exemplify the theme "Tomorrow"s Housing Today: Meeting the Housing Challenges of the New Millennium."
As real estate prices soar in cottage areas within an hour or two of
Many Canadians take the tax-free status of their home for granted. Under the federal Income Tax Act, you are entitled
Canada"s population is becoming increasingly urban and that trend shows every sign of accelerating in coming decades.
Raising the Roof, a national Canadian charity that raises
Last week, more than 850 exhibitors displayed the latest building products and services during Construct Canada "99, a three-day, three-in-one event that included Property Managers Expo and Homebuilder & Renovator Expo. Here are a
The federal government"s multi-billion-dollar bailout of bad mortgage debt could be a game-changer for home buyers, sellers and real estate professionals.
As Canadians sit down to Thanksgiving dinners in homes across Canada, many may
Pending home sales declined slightly but remain historically high, according to the National Association of Realtors.
Existing-home sales hit a record high in April, defying expectations of a modest slowing trend in 2005, according to the National Association of Realtors®. Single-family home sales rose 4.5 percent in April to a record seasonally adjusted annual rate of 6.28 million from a level of 6.01 million in March. Last month"s sales activity was 5.0 percent above the 5.98 million-unit pace in April 2004. The median single-family home price was $203,800 in April, up 15.1 percent from a year earlier.
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After four consecutive record years, home sales should ease but remain close to record levels in 2005, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
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Existing single-family home sales slipped in July but still managed the third-best pace on record, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Interest rates are rising due to healthy economic growth and they won"t dampen the general strength of the nation"s housing market, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.
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Bolstered by three consecutive record years, home sales will continue to provide a strong foundation for the U.S. economy while other sectors improve in 2004, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
New research by the National Association of Realtors suggests that 2003 “marks a milestone in the technological evolution of the real estate industry.” For the first time ever, according to NAR, more American home purchasers used the Internet as a key information source than used newspaper advertisements. Fully two-thirds of all recent home purchasers in the first half of this year used the Internet to search for their home versus just 49 percent of buyers who reported using traditional newspaper ads.
Sales of existing single-family homes eased slightly last month but were still at one of the strongest levels on record, according to the National Association of Realtors®.
Existing-home dropped 4.3 percent in February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate* of 5.84 million units from an upwardly revised record pace of 6.10 million units in January. Last month"s sales activity was 1.2 percent above the 5.77-million unit pace in February 2002. Other months with higher sales levels were in January and December of 2002.
Existing-home sales increased 6.1 percent in October to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.77 million units from an upwardly revised level of 5.44 million units in September. Last month"s sales activity was 9.5 percent above the 5.27-million unit pace in October 2001 and was tied for the third-highest pace on record.
Total existing-home sales activity in the third quarter of 2002 was the third-highest on record, with 34 states and the District of Columbia posting increases from a year ago, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS.
Stronger job growth is expected to strengthen commercial real estate market leasing activity and improve the outlook for 2003 and 2004, but the extent of the recovery is closely tied to the level of job growth, according to the National Association of Realtors® COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE QUARTERLY.
The president of the National Association of Realtors® today asked the banking lobby to accede to congressional intent and the public interest by withdrawing their request to enter real estate brokerage and property management, following an announcement by Treasury Secretary Paul O"Neill that the government has postponed a decision on the issue until 2003.
Question: Our board would like to evaluate our management company"s effectiveness by way of a member survey. What questions do you recommend?
A homeowner association is a business and, like any business, it generates documents and records. Invoices, bank statements, meeting minutes, contracts, communications with owners and vendors, committee reports ... the list is endless and the document management task can be onerous.
Question: Our management company seems too busy to handle our HOA business. The board wants to evaluate other management options. Is there some form or checklist we can use? There are many management companies. How do we determine which one is best for our needs?
Purchasing homeowner association insurance is one of the most important buying decisions the board will make. The decision addresses risk management and must meet or exceed any insurance requirements mandated by the state and the HOA"s governing documents.
Question: If a board member abstains from voting at a duly called board of directors meeting is this abstention vote an affirmative vote?
The latest report from the National Association of Realtors is reporting that existing-home sales were down in month of August by 2.2 percent.
Homeowner associations can be a melting pot of age groups which carry unique values and perceptions of the world. At times, these values can clash at the HOA level and the board is challenged to restore balance and harmony with the warring factions. There"s more to it than loud music, wandering pets and illegally parked RVs. There are certain heartfelt philosophies that simply don"t mix. Consider the dynamics of these groups:
Technology can be a marvelous thing and when it involves recycling, it"s doubly marvelous. A new product is now available to homeowner associations called Groundscape. This product is made entirely from recycled tires and mimics wood bark chips. It comes in various colors and lasts for years. Here"s a Q&A that explains the benefits:
Local real estate expert, Mark Carlisle, notes that Birmingham, Alabama, the "Magic City," is the "population center of the state of Alabama. With approximately 1.1 million people living in the Birmingham Metropolitan area, the city has a little of something for everyone."
The article, "HOA Manager Balancing Act," seemed to suggest that if a management company was involved in a homeowner association"s management both before and after transition that there was an inevitable conflict of interest. It also begged the question, "Can the manager really remain neutral?"
Homeowner association (HOA) management companies retained by developers often must balance the competing interests of the developer and the homeowners. They just as often find the developer pulls one way while the homeowners pulls the other way with the manager in the middle.
The issue of rules in homeowner associations is one that can trigger a wide range of responses. While most HOAs require little rule enforcement, there are some that seem rule driven or inhabited by I-eat-rules-for-lunch residents. This combination is a formula for trouble. That said, there are some recommended approaches to effective rules compliance that every HOA should consider. Jim Comin of
Finding storage solutions doesn"t always mean undertaking a major remodel. Sometimes it"s about using the square footage you already have. Remodelers can help you plan and reallocate storage to accommodate your family"s changing lifestyle. Getting creative with storage can improve daily living and boost the resale value of your home.
Tripping and slipping can involve both embarrassment and serious injury. The ubiquitous banana peel slip always gets a chuckle, but too often the gravity (both the law and seriousness) of the situation can cause real and lasting injury.
Question: What responsibility does a unit owner in a high-rise condominium have with respect to external doors, windows, balcony railings, or roof decks? Does a unit owner have any direct responsibility for other than the internal space and contents of his or her unit?
Question: At our annual meeting, the board advised that the monthly condo fee was increasing by $30. Some argued that some services could be discontinued and that they would rather pay a special assessment to do a renovation project next year. What"s the answer?
Question: Our governing documents restrict unit occupancy to three people. There is a unit that has four. What should we do?
Homeowner associations should keep good historical records, because to know where one is going it"s necessary to know where one has been. Some of those crucial records are the minutes kept at Board, Special, Committee and Annual Meetings. Minutes document decisions made during a meeting and provide a public record of actions taken.
Question: I have been a member of the Board of Directors of my condominium association for about five years. We have some issues that we"re unable to resolve because the governing documents would need to be amended in order for us to take action. For example, we"d like to amend the provisions regarding leasing units and pets. Everyone says it"s nearly impossible to amend the documents; so they don"t even try. I would like to hear your opinion on this matter as I"ve talked to others who say it"s not impossible!
Many prospective homeowner association buyers are attracted to their maintenance-free aspect. Fixed income buyers expect maintenance fees to relatively remain stable, possibly adjusted by inflation and little more. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case due to the tendency of many boards to keep fees and reserves unrealistically low. This budget "starvation" results in deferred maintenance and special assessments. What can be done to prevent this?
Question: As Board President, can I abstain from voting on a particular issue? There are several residents that could be offended by my vote.
The owner"s manual of every homeowner association are the governing documents, sometimes called Declaration, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations or CC&Rs (Codes, Covenants & Restrictions). The CC&Rs are usually drafted by attorneys that are knowledgeable about HOA law and practice, but not always. Some developers think CC&Rs are boilerplate (one size fits all) and may use documents from another project. This is ill advised since each HOA has its own unique needs and state HOA laws change almost every legislative session. This could lead to inappropriate or illegal provisions being included or appropriate provisions being excluded.
The real estate conditions are right in California -- falling prices, pent up demand, low interest rates -- to bring about a perfect storm of real estate sales, creating a hot market statewide. While some prognosticators tout the woes of price drops of up to 50 percent, buyers are seeing the devaluation as a signal to get off the fence. And they are doing just that with a vengeance.
Every time a condo sells, an angel gets its wings (Oops! Wrong story!). Every time a condo sells, the new owner inherits obligations passed on by the former owner or required by the HOA. There are the obligations to obey the rules, pay the homeowner fees and to volunteer for HOA service. But now and again, someone gets the bright idea that new owners should pay a special fee at closing as a contribution to working capital or reserves. This idea appeals to current HOA members because they are exempt from paying it, like a hotel tax foisted on tourists. It also seems fair since new members haven"t contributed to reserves. A newcomer contribution seems to level the playing field.
Question: I have served on my Community Association"s Board of Directors for a number of years. Most of the Board members with whom I have served are hard-working and sincere. However, in my opinion, one Board member appears to be using her position to further her own personal objectives. She objects to everything that the Board wants to accomplish, and we have caught her making false statements to Board members. She also does not attend many of the Board meetings.
Many HOA Boards struggle with the issue of architectural standards and their enforcement. While virtually all Boards are empowered to control the look and feel of the buildings and grounds, the governing documents are often silent as to what that look should be. Staying with the status quo is easy, but getting locked into a dated look erodes the market value of the homes or units. Changing with the times helps retain the highest market values.
Committees are a frequently untapped goldmine available to the HOA Board. Besides benefitting the Board by spreading the work around, committees are an excellent training ground for future Board members. Folks that may be reluctant or too timid to step up to a Board position often feel right at home on a committee with limited or focused responsibilities.
Investors and Realtors who target short sales may have just gotten some help from an unlikely source - the Obama administration.
The health of a homeowner association is important to measure from time to time. Fortunately, even poor health is curable but identifying the problem precedes the cure. Here are a series of self-diagnosis questions to help you out:
Question: Our Board President’s wife is paid for cleaning the clubhouse and the President owns a landscape company which is performing landscape services for our homeowner association. Are there any concerns we should have with this arrangement?
One of the most important aspects of a homeowner association is the ability to effectively control the look and feel of the community. While this power may conflict with a particular member’s desire to customize his home or condo (looove that electric chartreuse paint color!), the concept is strongly supported by the majority and a condition agreed to by all members before they bought. Indeed, that’s an important reason many opt for HOA living.
From time to time, the Board faces the unpleasant task of removing a director from the Board for cause. The causes can be many but common ones are failing to attend meetings, disruptive behavior, inciting riots in the community and generally undermining the Board effort.
One of the most influential committees often found within a homeowner association is the ARC (Architectural Review Committee). This committee’s mandate is to oversee modifications to member units/homes that are consistent with approved policy and to preserve or enhance property values.
An arborist is a specialist in tree care. Proper tree care is an investment which leads to substantial returns to a homeowner association where trees and landscaping account for a significant amount of the member asset value. These living assets should be managed with the best expertise available. A Certified Arborist is someone trained in the art and science of planting, caring and maintaining trees.
There is a nasty problem growing in your homeowner association. It might be in the walls. It might be in your crawlspace. But it’s there...somewhere. That musty odor means a fungus amongus...mold.
One of issues that often vex a homeowner association are resident pet
Writing effective letters requires skill. In homeowner associations, they deal with a variety of topics. Sometimes they are informational, sometimes happy and sometimes not so happy. Whether you are sending good or bad news, it requires planning. The type of letter you write dictates the format.
One of any homeowner association"s challenges is helping neighbors "make nice". The board is frequently called on to mediate disputes and fine neighbors for doing bad things. Actually, it"s not the board"s job and in most cases, except those that directly impact the common area, these "opportunities" should be bounced back to the complainer to handle.
In many homeowner associations, fireplaces are a warm and inviting amenity that boost market value and livability. Some owners use them passionately, buying cord upon cord of wood while others rarely use them except for special occasions like Christmas. Regardless of the usage, the homeowner association has an obligation to see that they all meet fire safety codes.
The term "quarrel" has been defined as "the minimum number of people required to hold an argument". One of the many challenges facing homeowner associations is resolving disputes between neighbors. Noise, parking, pets, fences and other territorial imperatives can erupt into all out war with seemingly little provocation. Most conflicts result from a failure to communicate. Neighbors, wanting to avoid confrontation, stew over issues until their emotional pots boil over, usually scalding innocent bystanders.
Question: How should we handle compensation, benefits and expenses to board members?
The annual homeowner association meeting may be required but rather than approach it in the "Do I have to?" mode, make it a celebration of accomplishments: Bills were paid, volunteers served and survived, and worthy projects were completed. There are always things to celebrate. So, while the business meeting may be mundane, dress it up for a party! All good parties takes planning:
Controlling pets in a homeowner association can be a wild goose chase that leaves you barking up the wrong tree.
When it comes to self managing, a few homeowner
Fraud is a criminal deception. Embezzlement is the act of diverting money fraudulently for one"s own use. Does this happen in community associations? You bet it does! And when it does, large sums are usually involved.
Getting and keeping dedicated board and committee members is one of a community association"s greatest challenges. How can the board avoid the burn-out that comes with time on the job? Here are a few suggestions:
Do you have a reliable system to get information to your association members quickly and accurately? Do you request suggestions and feedback? These are all signs of a pro-active management style. Pro-active managers welcome communication because it lets them know whether they are on track or derailed. As the saying goes, "The light at the end of the tunnel may be the headlight of an oncoming train." Better to know sooner than later.
There is a BIG difference between a "fun guy" and a "fungi". And though "fungi" are considered a culinary delicacy, when found in your building framing, siding and trim, they cause dryrot, a form of wood "cancer". This kind of "fungi" is no fun. And like cancer, it"s best to avoid the conditions that cause it. In the case of structures, the culprits are improper materials, flashing and design.
Homeowner association management companies work by contract for a monthly fee. But how is that amount computed? Few management companies have
Question: Our board seems to be making rules up as they go. How should they
The "off" season is the time of year that the Board should be arranging and reviewing proposals for fair weather construction and renovation projects. Painting, fencing, pool replastering and roofing are but a few of the major items that fit the profile. There are several practical reasons for starting the process early:
This is the framework of how a homeowner association works in conjunction with state laws, the governing documents, management company and the Board of Directors. Learning the terminology will help you understand the
Professional homeowner association managers often manage communities that
According to "Today’s Homeowner" magazine, tastes in siding are changing.
Community associations are required to hold an annual owners meetings. The main reason for the annual meeting is to elect directors to the board. This time, however, provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the community and build rapport between the owners. Here are some ways to make your annual meeting a "don’t wanna miss it" event:
Community associations faced with large renovation projects that exceed available reserve funds often have difficulty obtaining financing for improvement projects even when they are well run and show strong historical cash flow. Not all projects can wait, like in the case of a bad roof or structural dryrot. The longer you wait, the more costly the repair.
A government-incentivized program that acknowledges that not all homeowners are able to afford and keep their homes is intended to expedite the short sale process.
A manager of a seniors community once commented on the challenges of long
A well conducted meeting is like a symphony. Using a well thought out plan,
Homeowner associations were fashioned after the villages of an earlier time.
The 15-year FRM this week averaged 5.90 percent with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 5.93 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 6.15 percent.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, housing reports indicate that average days on market has increased from 65 to 81 days in the last year, a common trend for much of the country.
Local real estate experts in Fredericksburg, Virginia, say now, when interest rates are low, is the time to buy.
The San Antonio, Texas, real estate market is maturing, according to local real estate experts, who also note a slightly slowed market this year.
Local real estate experts report that despite the quality and attractions of Waipahu/Waikele, Hawaii, the area was "in the doldrums this quarter with sales declining and days on market increasing."
Last year about this time, local Detroit experts reported that home price deflation was the worst in the nation -- down 10.5 percent from 2005. At that point, NAR"s President sent out a hopeful word that the market was bottoming out -- and was a result of steep job losses in city.
Austin, Texas, is one of the most populous cities in the nation. Does supply keep up with demand?
Plenty of inventory to choose from, but homes are moving off the market slowly -- averaging 146 days. What about sales in this famous Southwest city?
While price trends remain unchanged in Millard, Nebraska, local experts are reporting a buyers market at this time.
Many cities on the west coast of the United States have seen a slow down in sales during the past year, after record highs and numbers were reached in 2004 and 2005. Langley, Washington, is no exception, which saw rapid price increases from 2002 to 2005.
Las Vegas, Nevada, has been a hub of the real estate industry for many years now. And local realtors don"t see that changing any time soon.
Realtor Judith Clausen says, "Denver"s an exciting place to live. Winter, summer, spring or fall -- there"s always something to do in the Denver area. Cultural amenities include the Denver Center for the Performing Arts which houses the Colorado Ballet, the Denver Symphony, and the Denver Center Theater. Art galleries, the Denver Museum of Science and Nature, over 90 golf courses, sophisticated shopping centers, the Denver Zoo -- the list goes on and on. Denver is a large urban area close at hand to some of the most beautiful country in the U.S. Ski areas are just hours away. Fly fishing, hiking, mountain climbing and much more offer spring, summer and fall recreation in the nearby Rocky Mountains. Quality of life in the Denver area is its biggest draw."
While housing supply can"t seem to keep up with demand, local real estate professionals remain optimistic.
Maryland is boasting more than just history and style these days. Local Realtors tell of sky-rocketing demand.
San Diego realtors report that the market is leveling. While prices may be on a moderate rise, inventories are low.
Realtors in Naples, Florida, say their town is ranked as one of the most desirable places to live, and housing is still going strong.
With its close location to Washington, D.C., Bethesda, Maryland, is still reporting high prices but a moderation in sales.
"Cheyenne is a great city to raise a family or to retire in," says Realtor Connie Webb. "It has great schools, medical facilities, and is close to large urban areas. There"s easy access for all outdoor sports, and it"s just a great place to call home."
Answer: Probably we"re going to see a lot more of them, given the rising level of foreclosures and distressed homeowners.
Consider, you go to a new car dealer, buy a vehicle and when you leave the lot it loses all four wheels and goes on fire. Gone. Incinerated. Most likely, you will hold the local dealer where you purchased the car for damages, but you may also seek amends from the automobile manufacturer as well.
Irving, Grapevine, and Arlington are comfortably situated with easy access to one of the world"s largest airports, Dallas-Fort Worth International. The cities boast large entertainment venues, such as theme parks and race tracks, and they work consistently to bring high-paying jobs and fine homebuilders to their areas.
A Realtor who sells real estate in the towns of Appleton, Fremont and Greenville, Wisconsin says that a country atmosphere near big city conveniences is what many buyers want today as she sees home sales heating up.
Kirkland, Washington, is one of the most beautiful waterfront cities on Lake Washington, say local Realtors, but it"s got a lot more to offer than just beauty.
Americans are a highly mobile society. Considering the amount of personal goods and furniture that many are blessed with, moving a household from one place to another efficiently takes both time and planning. When it comes to homeowner association moves, especially mid and high rise buildings, the logistics often involve coordinating with management, neighbors and others to minimize disruption. Here is a sample policy which can be adapted to your use:
Orange County, California, real estate is still hot but taking a breather, say local Realtors.
Troy, Michigan, Realtors believe one good reason buyers should consider their city is the excellent municipal management, among other reasons.
"The Town of Yorktown, which includes such hamlet areas as Yorktown Hts., Shrub Oak, Mohegan Lake, and Jefferson Valley is an extremely diverse community," says Realtor Geri Schwalb. "Each hamlet area has an identity all its own; from commercial centers to historic and charming neighborhoods, the town is spread across 40 miles and boasts multiple accesses to the Taconic State Pkwy."
Germantown is an upscale suburb of Memphis, Tennessee, where local Realtors report the area is still a big draw for the elite.
After idling for a couple of years, the Indianapolis housing market is ready to race around the track again, with local Realtors reporting signs of the gas pedal being hit.
Located just north of downtown Dallas, "Uptown" is a designated public improvement district with its own management, funds for ongoing renovations, and one-of-a-kind amenities such as the Katy Trail, a jogging trail fashioned from an unused railroad track.
Wyoming Realtors report continued population growth throughout the state, and anticipate brisk sales in 2005.
While sales stabilized or were reduced over the holiday and winter months, Realtors in Cape Cod, Massachusetts say that spring always means higher prices and more competition for buyers.
Kansas City, Missouri is moving into a buyer"s market, with sellers slow to comprehend what"s happening, say local Realtors, but a stronger business core may reverse the trend.
The market is usually strong for waterfront properties, but some waterfront communities in Ontario are reporting a quieter sales period for December and after the holidays.
Realtors in Southern Oregon towns such as Rogue River, Central Point and Klamath Falls suggest that sales are strong and will continue to be strong throughout the spring.
With affordability a huge topic for many homeowners in this country -- after spiking prices and then mortgage ails -- beginning on Monday, hundreds of housing experts and public officials from California, Nevada, Arizona and Hawaii will gather in Los Angeles to discuss the future of affordable housing in today"s climate of rising foreclosures and declining home values.
Realtors in Breckenridge, Colorado suggest that home sales are in a flurry as world economics, a new gondola and continuing low interest rates have helped improve attitudes from homebuyers in this premier ski resort town.
The best of country living is within two hours of Washington, D.C., say Realtors in Greene County, Virginia, where Blue Ridge Mountain towns offer growth along with small-town values.
Park City, Utah still sees silver in them thar hills. One of Utah"s premier recreation destinations, Park City has an annual snowfall of well over 350 inches, attracting skiers and homebuyers by the thousands.
The latest report from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) shows that builders are still seeing a slowed pace in new production.
Realtors across the 21 municipalities of Somerset County in New Jersey report that its terrific location on the train routes to New York City and Philadelphia make it an ideal place to relocate.
Springfield, Illinois, birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, has jobs and affordability, an unbeatable combination for homebuyers, say local Realtors.
Encinitas, California"s housing is slowing down with the rest of the San Diego market, say local Realtors.
Local Realtors say Waukesha has some of the fastest-moving real estate in the state, due to growing population, low unemployment, and high quality-of-life amenities.
Taking advantage of its beautiful location near beaches and mountains, Vancouver is growing by the day, say local Realtors.
Good news has made its way into the real estate arena this summer -- in the form of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008. What does this Act mean for you?
Rising prices have slowed demand for the West side of Chicago, Illinois, say local Realtors, but the neighborhoods continue to be popular destinations for homebuyers because of spectacular Lake Michigan.
Boasting 10-minute access to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, a beautiful lake, an historical downtown and many other attractions, Grapevine, Texas is a popular relocation destination northeast of Fort Worth and northwest of Dallas.
Like other parts of Florida, Lake Worth has grown and escalated in value, despite the recent troubles with the weather. New face-lifts downtown are among the attractions.
Waterfront living and recreation in the northern half of the Morse Reservoir attract residents and vacationers to Cicero, Indiana from nearby Indianapolis, say local Realtors.
Realtors in Chapel Hill, North Carolina rhapsodize about the "Triangle" area for its cultural diversity, unique neighborhoods, and educational and business opportunities.
In Evanston, Illinois, where the community offers so much including a university and lakefront homes, the housing market is beginning to show signs of softening while local Realtors fret over the possibility of rising mortgage interest rates.
Like other barrier island communities, Sarasota, Florida is in a strong seller"s market with a diminishing number of properties available for sale, which is attracting investors as well as homebuyers.